Chapters 15-16 Summary

In Chapter 15, Rutledge takes time to contemplate what he has learned about the case so far. He lays in bed thinking over Lizzie's situation. Why is the little girl so terrified? As he considers the evidence he has so far, Hamish points out that Scotland Yard has surely abandoned Rutledge to this difficult case. He will be made a scapegoat when the Captain draws on his friends in high places to defend himself. In spite of this, Rutledge is determined because what alternative does he have? Only a bullet to the brain will end his misery, and he's not afraid of death.

The next day is Sunday. The village prepares to go to church services. After stopping briefly at Dr. Warren's clinic to check on Hickam, Rutledge goes to church. He has found in past cases that church gives him a...